You have made plans to go on a trip and have decided to take your dog with you. If you are making a long trip or don’t have a car, you may consider renting one. However, you may wonder whether a rental car company will allow your dog inside their vehicles in Georgia.
Fortunately, most car rental companies – especially the most recognizable ones – are in favor of allowing dogs to come along with their parents. However, they have strict policies that may cost you a lot of money if you fail to comply. Nevertheless, reading the fine print in your rental contract and preparing your dog for your trip can help you enjoy your travel together.
Critter Sitters is an experienced dog sitting company dedicated to providing nothing but- high-quality dog sitting, walking, and overnight sitting services. If you are not able to bring Fido over for your trip, we can take good care of it. Just call Critter Sitters today and talk to our friendly dog sitters. Our phone number is (404) 793-6178.
Are there Dog-Friendly Rental Car Companies in Georgia?
Planning a trip with your family or friends can mean bringing Fido over for the experience. Unfortunately, for many dog parents, the idea of bringing their four-legged friend on a trip means finding a car rental company that allows dogs on their vehicles. However, you do not need to feel stressed over this. Fortunately, there are major rental car companies that allow dog parents to bring their furry friends over. Some of the car rental car companies that allow dogs on their vehicles in Georgia include the following:
Alamo
Alamo is a well-known rental car company with a presence around the US. This company can allow Fido to join you on your rental without additional fees. However, you are expected to clean your rental car well before delivering it back. If you fail to clean your vehicle, Alamo may charge you a cleaning/detailing fee. Want to take your lovely dog on vacation? Give Alamo a chance.
Avis
Avis is another well-known rental car company with a presence in many airports and other locations around the country. Like Alamo, Avis will not charge any additional fees for taking your pup in their cars. However, you still need to ensure your vehicle is clean and free from dog hair or any other “business” before you return it. If you do not comply with this rule, you may face hundreds of dollars in detailing fees.
Budget
Budget is another car rental company dedicated to providing rental services around the US, including Georgia. Unlike the other two companies we mentioned, Budget’s pet policies can change from one location to another. It is essential to consult with your local Budget car rental services to learn about which policies may apply to you. They have similar rules in terms of cleaning your car upon return. Like with the other two mentioned companies, you can face steep surcharges if you fail to return a clean car.
What Should I Consider When Taking My Dog in a Rental Car?
Taking your dog for a trip on a rental car requires careful planning and keeping a close look at every detail. Every dog is different, and their behavior can change if you take them with you for a ride. This is especially true if your dog has never been in a car before. Here are some tips to consider when taking your dog for a ride on a rental vehicle.
Car Rental Fees
We have already touched base on this topic. However, the importance of returning a clean car cannot be stressed enough. You know your pup better than anyone. You should consider planning before renting your vehicle and prepare for any potential mess. For instance, if your dog sheds a lot of hair, try to cover your doggie’s seat with plastic wrap. If your dog gets nervous and starts scratching stuff, consider putting on soft socks while you travel. If your little dog gets nervous and pees everywhere, consider a puppy diaper. Remember that the car rental company will expect a clean, odorless, spotless, hairless car upon its return. Otherwise, your wallet will scream.
Car Rental Damage
Damage to the vehicle can cost even more money than a smelly car. If your dog starts biting on the headrest, dashboard, or seat, that damage will come back to bite you – hard! Consider investing in a seat guard you can install on the backseat to provide safe travel to your dog and make sure the seats, doors, and headrests are protected.
Pet Policies
This may sound like a “given,” but paying careful attention to your car rental company’s pet policy is critical. Many dog parents may forget to read the fine print, where the essential bits that may cost you money are written. Read every clause carefully and make sure you are well informed. This will help you take care of your furry buddy while complying with all of the car rental policies.
What Should I Do to Prepare My Dog for Our Trip on a Car Rental?
Now that you have read everything you need to know to make sure you comply with your car rental’s pet policies, it is time to prepare for the road ahead. A long drive on a car may seem a little too much for your pup – especially if this is their first trip ever. Smaller breeds like the Maltipoo are huge couch potatoes. These beautiful dogs may lay down and sleep through your trip. However, other breeds may be more energetic and could get nervous or anxious through their trip.
Preparing before your trip is essential to ensure you and your dog enjoy a nice, smooth ride. If you have a mellow, “chill” pup, try bringing their favorite blanket or pillow, snacks, and water. Additionally, make sure to stop every once in a while to walk them and allow them to do their business. If your dog is more energetic, make sure to bring enough toys for them to chew on and keep entertained. The trick is to keep them as close to their routine as possible and avoid disrupting their ways. This can help them feel comfortable, safe, secure, and happy throughout the entire trip.
Professional Dog Sitters Providing High-Quality Services
Critter Sitters is an experienced Atlanta dog sitting company with over four decades of experience in Georgia. We can take good care of your dog if you are planning a trip and cannot take Fido with you. Call our offices today and learn more about our excellent services. Our number is (404) 793-6178.
